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Fenestration vs Dehiscence — NDEB AFK MCQ

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ModeratePeriodontologyFenestration vs DehiscenceNDEB AFK

Which of the following characterises the 'mucosal fenestration' sometimes seen overlying the buccal root prominence of maxillary canines?

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Correct answer: D — A bony defect in the alveolar bone overlying the root without loss of marginal bone (fenestration)

A fenestration is a window-like defect in the alveolar bone where the root surface is covered only by periosteum and overlying gingiva, without loss of the marginal (crestal) bone. It is distinguished from a dehiscence, which is a defect extending from the alveolar crest apically (loss of marginal bone). Fenestrations are most common over the buccal surfaces of maxillary canines and first premolars, where the root prominences are most pronounced relative to the alveolar bone thickness.

Reference: Newman – Newman and Carranza's Clinical Periodontology, 13th ed., 2019